Eight weeks! Two whole months of loving, soothing, feeding, and learning this tiny human. This week feels different for many parents—it’s the end of the true newborn stage.
Your baby is still small and dependent, but they’re starting to feel more like a baby with a personality than just a sleepy newborn. And you? You might be feeling just a little more confident, like you’re finally coming up for air.
What’s Happening with Your Baby at 8 Weeks?
They’re much more alert. Longer stretches of awake time mean more opportunities for play and bonding.
Smiles are now real and intentional. They’ll smile back at you, melting your heart every time.
More “talking.” Cooing, gurgling, and adorable baby babbles are starting.
Head control is improving. During tummy time, they may lift their head for longer and even turn it side to side.
Crying starts to decrease. If your baby was extra fussy the past weeks, it often eases after this point.
This is the week where you’ll really start to see social interaction—your baby looking right at you, smiling, and making sounds just for you.
Feeding: Getting Easier
By 8 weeks, feeding often feels more manageable.
Breastfeeding sessions may be shorter and more predictable.
Bottle-fed babies may take 4–6 ounces every 3–4 hours.
Growth spurts may still happen, but they’re usually easier to handle than the early weeks.
If you’re curious about seeing how feeds and naps change over time, you can check our Best Baby Tracker Apps blog for tools that keep it simple.
Sleep: A Hint of Routine
Sleep might finally be shifting a bit.
Some babies give a longer stretch at night—sometimes 5–7 hours. (If yours doesn’t yet, that’s still normal!)
Awake windows are a bit longer—about 1 to 1.5 hours—before they need another nap.
You might notice the start of a natural “pattern,” like a fussy time in the evening and a calmer morning.
It’s still too early for a strict schedule, but gentle bedtime routines (dim lights, quiet voices, same order of activities) can start laying the groundwork for better sleep later.
Your Body & Mind at 8 Weeks
Two months postpartum is another transition for you.
Your body is still recovering, but you might feel more energy compared to the first few weeks.
Hormones are beginning to stabilize, which can make emotions feel a bit steadier.
If you’re planning to return to work, pumping, or daycare, you might feel a mix of emotions—pride, worry, sadness, and relief.
It’s okay to feel all of it. This is a huge life change, and you’re doing your best.
Playtime & Bonding
At 8 weeks, your baby is ready for a little more interactive play.
Talk to them face-to-face. They’re fascinated by your expressions.
Sing simple songs or lullabies. Your voice is their favorite sound.
Use high-contrast toys or books. They can see more clearly now.
Mirror time. Babies love looking at faces—even their own.
Even just holding them and making eye contact is amazing stimulation right now.
The Light at the End of the Tunnel
If the past weeks felt like a haze of crying, feeding, and no sleep, take heart—this is the time many parents feel things lighten just a little.
Your baby is more interactive, easier to soothe, and more fun. You’ll still have long nights and tough days, but it won’t feel quite as relentless as those first weeks.
A Gentle Reminder
Eight weeks ago, your baby was a tiny, wrinkly, sleepy newborn. Now, they’re starting to smile, coo, and connect with you in beautiful ways.
You’ve made it through the hardest part. You’ve kept your baby fed, safe, and loved. You’re growing into this journey—one day at a time.
Take a moment to be proud of yourself. You’re doing an incredible job.